(Getty)
It’s likely that Ronda Rousey’s eighth UFC fight will be a title bout just like her first seven, but there will be one significant difference.
She’ll be the challenger.
Rousey was upset in thrilling fashion at UFC 193 against Holly Holm, who knocked the champion out in the second round with a monster kick to the head. And it didn’t take long for talk of a rematch to surface.
“The rematch makes a lot of sense,” said UFC president Dana White following the fight. “I think the rematch is what people would want to see.”
The new bantamweight champion agrees.
“Anybody who does come out with the victory should give the rematch,” Holm said. “That’s how the sport goes and people are really going to want to see it. It’ll be a totally different fight the second time around, you know. I’m ready for it.”
It will be interesting to see who’s favored if a rematch does eventually happen. Just 24 hours ago Rousey was considered the most dominant athlete on the planet, but she was completely overmatched against Holm, whose boxing pedigree and striking skills picked the former champ apart. Still, as PreGame.com’s RJ Bell notes, the early odds favor Rousey in a still hypothetical rematch:
Rematch odds live: Ronda Rousey -255 over Holly Holm (via BetOnline). Opened -300 (early money on underdog)
As to when a potential rematch may happen, UFC 200 makes plenty of sense. Rousey vs. Holm helped set an attendance record the first time around, and a rematch would be an even bigger draw. Not only would it be an appropriate headliner for such a banner event, but it would give Rousey about eight months to rest and prepare, a necessary break after an incredibly busy 2015.
Note: Fans looking to watch Rousey vs. Holm on UFC 193 online, on mobile or on other devices can click here to order the PPV replay. Or if you simply want to watch all of Rousey or Holm’s previous fights click here to start a free trial of UFC Fight Pass.